Monarchs Make Huge Impression on Special Olympics

NORFOLK, Va. - For the fourth-straight year and third consecutive at Foreman Field at S.B. Ballard Stadium, Special Olympics were held on the campus of Old Dominion Tuesday afternoon.

"Old Dominion football was honored again today to play a small role in the Special Olympics little feet meet event at S.B. Ballard Stadium. I am always proud of our players and the other students here at ODU that volunteer their time to make these special athletes feel like Champions," ODU Head Coach Bobby Wilder said. "A big thank you to all the volunteer staff members that had Foreman Field rocking with enthusiasm for our celebrity guests today."

Approximately 270 students participated in 19 events, ranging from the standing long jump, the football throw and the soccer kick, among others. There were attendees from 11 elementary schools, five high schools and two middle schools, with varying responsibilities including, station workers, chaperones as well as the band from Booker T. Washington High School.

"It's amazing to see all the kids we bring out, to help everyone that can't have what we have" ODU defensive tackle Dominique Guinn-Bailey said. "It is a great thing to help all the kids and lift their spirits up, even if it's just for one day."

The Monarch football team was out in full force, helping athletes along the way and working different stations.

"It means so much to all of us, to come out here and see these kids smile and have fun, it makes us appreciate are life a lot more," ODU quarterback Taylor Heinicke said.